Малый Актуру, Mountain glacier in Altai Mountains, Russia.
Maly Akturu is a glacier in the Altai Mountains that flows through a high valley between two major peaks and spans several kilometers. The ice surface displays steep sections and deep crevasses typical of glaciers at this elevation.
Scientists from Tomsk State University began studying the ice mass of this glacier in the early 20th century. Systematic monitoring expanded during the International Geophysical Year and has continued since then.
The glacier functions as a training site where mountaineers practice ice climbing and high-altitude skills. Visitors can observe the marks of human activity scattered across the slopes, reflecting how this place serves the climbing community.
A research station operated by Tomsk State University lies below the glacier and provides laboratory facilities and accommodation for visitors and researchers. Access to the glacier itself requires alpine experience and proper gear for steep ice terrain.
Three permanent markers at the glacier's terminus document the ice retreat and are named after professors from Tomsk State University. These markers visually record how the ice has pulled back over the decades.
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